"Ride of the Valkyrie" is a military science fiction anime set in an alternate world where humanity faces an existential threat from a mysterious alien force known as the Valkyries. These colossal, biomechanical entities descend from the skies, wreaking havoc on Earth's cities and military forces. The story centers on the development and deployment of advanced humanoid combat units called Einherjar, designed to counter the Valkyrie threat. These machines are piloted by young recruits, who undergo rigorous training to harness their abilities and protect humanity.
The protagonist, Akira Tachibana, is a skilled but emotionally reserved pilot who joins the Einherjar program after losing his family in a Valkyrie attack. Akira's journey intertwines with that of his fellow pilots, including the determined and idealistic Rina Fujimoto and the enigmatic and battle-hardened Kaito Sugisawa. As the pilots face increasingly dangerous Valkyrie incursions, they uncover unsettling truths about the origins of the alien invaders and the true purpose of the Einherjar program. The narrative explores themes of sacrifice, camaraderie, and the moral complexities of warfare, as the characters grapple with their roles in a conflict that may have deeper, more sinister implications.
The plot unfolds through a series of intense battles, strategic military operations, and interpersonal dynamics among the pilots and their commanding officers. Key revelations about the Valkyries' connection to humanity and the hidden agendas of the Einherjar program drive the story forward, culminating in a climactic confrontation that challenges the characters' beliefs and resolves long-standing mysteries. The series balances action-packed sequences with moments of introspection, offering a nuanced portrayal of its characters and their struggles in a war-torn world.